Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton recently addressed the media regarding his recovery and preparation for the upcoming game against Kansas State. After facing injury setbacks that sidelined him, Morton expressed relief and excitement about getting back on the field. “I’m feeling good. It’s been nice to have a couple of weeks to really get my body back right. Excited about Saturday,” he stated.
Morton acknowledged that his time away from the game provided valuable opportunities for his teammates to step up. “It sucks for me to miss a couple of weeks, but that brought opportunities for other guys to have time and do what they need to do. I’m really proud of this team and the way we’ve stepped up depth wise,” he reflected.
Throughout his recovery, Morton remained engaged with the team and praised the efforts of backup quarterbacks Mitch Griffis and Will Hammond. “It’s just the next guy up. Mitch was ready. We knew he was gonna be ready. Will, I hate it for him. He’s a great kid. He’s gonna attack the training room and be fine,” Morton explained, highlighting the team’s resilience.
As the Red Raiders prepare to face Kansas State, Morton stressed the importance of starting strong. “They’re playing at a high level right now. We’ve got to start fast and establish the run game early, relying on our two great backs to set the tone. Once they want to put a few extra guys in the box, we got weapons,” he stated confidently while acknowledging Kansas State’s capability to force turnovers.
Morton, a coach’s son, shared insights regarding his mental approach during his recovery. “It seems like I can’t catch a break, but that’s part of the game I chose. I’ve seen ways people have responded. I’m gonna get off the mat every time and keep fighting,” he declared, demonstrating his determination and leadership.
While sidelined, Morton maintained active participation in practice, building chemistry with his receivers. “It was a lower body injury, so for the last two weeks I’ve been moving around at practice, still getting throws with CD, Reggie, and TC. I feel like I’ve missed games, but I haven’t missed practice as much,” he shared. He also confirmed that his throwing strength has returned to full capacity, stating, “I was 100% going then, and this week’s practice is going to be a good one.”
With a pivotal game on the horizon, Morton remains focused on the team’s goals. “We’re right where we want to be. This team got punched in the mouth against Arizona State, and the way we responded last week is credit to Coach McGuire and what he preaches every day,” he assessed.
Morton views a victory over Kansas State as particularly significant, stating, “They’re playing their best football of the year right now. It’s gonna be awesome. The atmosphere is gonna be great. But at the end of the day, the ball is going to get spotted, and I know who’s on our team.” He urged his teammates to approach the game with assertiveness, emphasizing that they will come prepared to compete.
Morton’s outlook encapsulates resilience and leadership, illustrating his eagerness to return to action and guide Texas Tech against a historically challenging opponent. With his renewed health and the solid performances of teammates like Griffis, Morton believes the Red Raiders are ready to rise to the occasion in Manhattan and keep their Big 12 aspirations alive.
